SportsCOVID-19: Comoros To Play Outfield Player As Goalkeeper Against Cameroon

COVID-19: Comoros To Play Outfield Player As Goalkeeper Against Cameroon

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January 24, (THEWILL) – Even though first XI goalkeeper Ali Ahamada tested negative for COVID-19, Comoros will be forced to use an outfield player in goal for their historic TotalEnergies 2021 Africa Cup of Nations last-16 encounter.

The debutants will meet hosts Cameroon after pulling off one of the greatest tournament upsets by defeating traditional African powers Ghana 3-2 in the group round, as THEWILL reported.

However, any hopes of duplicating that incredible performance were severely harmed when it was revealed that many members of the playing squad and administration had tested positive for the virus.

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Salim Ben Boina, the first-choice goalkeeper, had already been ruled out due to injury, and back-up goalkeepers Moyadh Ousseini and Ahamada were among the positive cases registered.

Ahamada tested negative ahead of the game, which implied that Comoros would not need to use an outfield player in goal. However, that is not the case as any player who tests positive for coronavirus must isolate for five days before taking a PCR test 48 hours before his team’s next match, according to CAF guidelines.

In addition to lacking a clear goalkeeper, the underdogs have only 12 players available and will be without coach Amir Abdou. Unfortunately, if 11 players are available, even if they do not have a goalkeeper, CAF rules specify that such a team must play their fixtures.

The rules are clear on this: “A team will be required to play a match if they have a minimum of 11 players available who have tested negative.

“In the event of the absence of a goalkeeper, another player from the team must replace the goalkeeper, provided the total number of available players is at least 11.

“In exceptional cases, the Organising Committee of the Africa Cup of Nations will take the appropriate decision.”

About the Author

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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.

Jude Obafemi, THEWILLhttps://thewillnews.com
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.

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